Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

Jesus is truth.

The Bible tells us we are at war for the souls of men.  But our enemy is not human.  We are at war with a spiritual enemy that is determined to steal, kill, and destroy all that God loves.  He is called the ancient dragon, Lucifer, also known as the serpent, or Satan.

Jesus said Satan was a murderer from the beginning.  There is no truth in him.  He is a liar and the father of lies.  Lies and deception are his art.

Lucifer whispers, follow your heart, personal happiness is the goal of life, be who you want to be.

The serpent says, “people are all good at heart,” “there are many roads to heaven,” and the Bible is outdated and irrelevant; a book of fables with too many rules.”

We have been on the defensive, and our morale has been brought low.  We must now go on the offensive.  A great many people have been deceived by the serpent’s lies and must be rescued.

The weapons of our warfare are not of this world.  They are spiritual in nature.  The Word of God is our sword.  It is truth in written form, an offensive weapon, living and active, perfectly designed to destroy Satan’s lies.

Lies are defeated by truth.  Jesus is truth.  Truth is found in a personal relationship with Jesus. When we know Jesus, the truth lives within us.  We are then called to love, pray for, and serve others that they too may be reborn in Jesus.  Jesus said people may hate us, but they are not the enemy.

We are called to be “fishers of men,” and are equipped by our King with the spiritual authority we need to combat spiritual enemies.  Lies may deceive for a time, but the truth remains forever.

John the Apostle said, The Son of God appeared for this reason, to destroy the works of the devil.

Our weapon is God’s truth, our enemy is Satan’s lies.

Jesus said these truths…

“All authority is given to me in heaven and on earth.”
“No one comes to the Father, except through Me.”
“Whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” 
“Come unto me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
“My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
“I leave you peace, my peace I give you.” 
“Go and make disciples of all nations. teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
“I will never leave you or forsake you.”

Our goal as disciples is to serve others as Jesus served and sacrificed for us.

LifeGroups are usually not what people may think.  Many traditional Christians who have been in church for many years are convinced that a LifeGroup is a Sunday School Group that meets in a home in the evening on various days of the week.  Like the Sunday School tradition, many believe a LifeGroup must have a gifted teacher to present a lesson while those present ask an occasional question and take notes.

But this is not true.  LifeGroups need a leader, but that leader does not have to be a gifted Bible teacher.  He or she simply needs to be a good facilitator and is not required to have all the answers.  A facilitator is someone who leads by asking questions and guiding a discussion on the Bible or a chosen topic.

Discussion builds confidence in people and it empowers them to know they are capable of drawing their own conclusions.  This is how we make disciples of Jesus.  By raising questions and encouraging discussion we deepen our relationships with each other, and we learn to think independently so that our answers become our own.    

Our purpose is to know and trust Jesus and each other deeply, to develop a Christlike character as the Lord enables us, and to become a light in the darkness.

The facilitator will guide the group, but there is no pattern carved in stone that must be followed.  With the Bible as the centerpiece of the LifeGroup learning experience, the facilitator will guide in three ways.

• To pray together.
• To keep the Bible the main focus.
• To develop Christlike character.

A LifeGroup does not have to be in someone’s home in the evening.  It could be a group of people meeting in a fast-food restaurant or a coffee shop once a week to talk about the Bible.  It could be in the early morning, at lunchtime, or in the afternoon.  There could be a regular meeting at a pizza restaurant where the group can discuss the Bible together and get to know the staff as they become a Gospel light to others.

LifeGroups are meant to be simple.  We encourage Christians to meet outside of church on Sunday.  When we meet, we pray and invite the Lord to guide us.  We explore the Bible and discuss real-life issues.  We support and encourage each other, and pray for each other.  We want to develop a Christlike attitude and character, and as we do, we become a light to those around us in our community. 

There is a cultural shift taking place.  Making discipleship the primary function of church educational ministries is a growing trend, with the goal of establishing Christlikeness as the primary measure of Christian maturity and spiritual formation.

Christlikeness is conforming to the character and priorities of Jesus that he modeled for us when he walked this earth.  The pursuit of conforming to the image of Christ can prove challenging because it requires us to die to self.  Jesus modeled this.  He emptied himself completely as God and became a man who became a servant who obeyed the Father even to death on a Roman cross to pay the ransom that saves us.

Jesus explained we should not seek to be served, but to serve.  We are to give prayer the same priority Jesus did as he sought the Father constantly for help and guidance.  He commands us to live our lives for the benefit of others.  We are to serve and give sacrificially without expecting anything in return, thereby laying up treasures in heaven.

As we study the examples of how Jesus responded to each situation in life, we are to copy it.  Jesus modeled for us all that He expects of us as his people.  Jesus had no pride. He lived and served others in ways that would humiliate and enrage a proud person.  Jesus went to the cross without a word as a sheep to the slaughter.  He uttered no threat, no complaint, and he never tried to defend himself.

We must understand that Jesus lived as a role model for us.  Jesus trusted the Father completely as the author of his life and he kept a perfect faith that his Father was in control and could be trusted.  Jesus not only taught us to love our enemies; he demonstrated what this looks like as he asked the Father to forgive those who murdered him unjustly.

Knowing it would be impossible for us to become Christlike in our flesh, Jesus gave us the same power to overcome sin and evil that he possessed.  Jesus is God but became a man in a human body, with the Holy Spirit abiding in him, and living in a deep and personal relationship with God the Father.  Jesus gives us the same tools he had when he walked this earth.  His relationship with God the Father becomes ours when we surrender our lives to him in faith and repentance.  His Spirit is given to us as well to enable us to overcome sin and to equip us to walk in Christlikeness.

Jesus said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, but it shall not be so among you.  Whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.  For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  (Mark 10:42-45)

Jesus said to them again, “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” (John 20:21)

“For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.”  (Romans 8:29)

The Apostle Paul made it clear that his goal was for “Christ to be formed” in those he had led to Jesus and discipled.  (Galatians 4:19)

When Jesus had finished washing the disciple’s feet, he asked them, “Do you understand what I have done for you?  Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.  I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”  (John 13:12-15)

The following are three life challenges that we deal with on a daily basis.  As we reflect on the example of servanthood that Jesus modeled for us, what is the best response?

One:  I am cut-off in traffic by a rude driver.  I am tempted to engage this person with angry words and aggressive driving to let him know he is out of line.  Will my response help him and me to get closer to the Lord?  Will I be able to let it pass?  Someone once told me that ignoring all forms of ignorance is the best course, and never to let my ego get involved in my response.  People will do what people are will do.  The key is for me to stay close to Jesus and not to let my peace be taken away by choosing to respond angrily.  

Two:  I am at my job, and someone there dislikes me.  My character is questioned, and I am insulted publicly and behind my back as well.  Untrue accusations are made against me.  I am hurt and angry.  Do I let God be my defender, or will I choose to defend myself?  What will be the outcome of these two choices?

If I defend myself God will step aside and allow me to do so.  Will this draw my accuser to Jesus, or will defending myself drive him away from God by my actions?  Jesus did not defend himself against his enemies.  He trusted the Father to deal with these things.  Jesus understood that modeling the love and patience and mercy of the Father was his mission.  Justice was in the hands of the Father.

This is why Jesus told us to “turn the other cheek” when attacked by an enemy.  It will enable my enemy to see the love and patience and mercy of the Father lived out.  My Father will protect me.  If I am harmed there is a purpose in it, and God will walk with me through the ordeal.  I will have what I need in every situation.  God will give me the right words, the confidence I need, and the peace and strength to endure.  When I do this, I am walking in the footsteps of Jesus and my life will bring glory to my heavenly Father and it will bring the light of the Gospel to others.  This is Christlikeness.

Three:  I am enjoying an evening out at a nice restaurant with family and friends.  The service I receive at my table in the restaurant is poor, and even borders on rudeness.  I am tempted to confront the employee who is embarrassing us and making us all uncomfortable.  I want to remind our server of what “proper guest service” should look like, and then punish them by refusing to leave a tip.

By insisting on receiving what is due to me I may improve my situation, but to what degree will God be glorified?  Will the employee see God’s grace and mercy or merely the wrath of an angry customer?  I would dare to say that in this situation Jesus would let the offense pass and demonstrate patience, exercise forgiveness, and still leave a generous tip.  He would show love and forgiveness in his everyday actions with people.

Isn’t this the Christlikeness that Jesus calls us to?  When I am tempted to behave in the same way as person who does not know Jesus, I should pause.  If my own priorities and preferences are the things that really matter to me, will people see in me the heart of Jesus who loves them and died for them?    

Jesus teaches us to love others as we love ourselves and to forgive an enemy so that my enemy will see something in my life and actions that he cannot find anywhere else.  I become the proof that Jesus is real, and that he can change my heart to reflect his own.

When I am able to forgive an offender and turn the other cheek on someone hostile toward me, it causes the light of God’s glory to shine forth and that is what draws people to Jesus.  The light of the Gospel shines through my life when I pursue Christlikeness.

“For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.”  (Romans 8:29)

Paul desired that “Christ be formed” in those he had led to Jesus.  (Galatians 4:19)

When I am confronted with an unfair job loss, an unexpected and unwanted divorce, or an accident that puts me in the hospital, where does my heart take me?  These are the true tests of faith.  Some may feel betrayed by God and unwilling to talk to him.  Others will desire to seek God more and get closer to him for the strength and guidance they need.

Jesus was able to trust the Father in every situation.  Some of these were very dark and painful situations.  The example of Jesus teaches us to trust God in all things and to remember that nothing can touch God’s children unless our Father in heaven allows it.  (Job Chapter 1)

If the Father allows it, there is a purpose in it, and we can trust him in this.  We may never understand the purpose in this life, but we know our Father loves us and has no desire to harm us.  As his children and faithful servants, in the end, we are the instruments of his glory.  Everything we do is to model his greatness and love and mercy to those who are lost in sin and darkness, even if it means loving our enemies to the point of suffering on their behalf.  This is what Jesus modeled for us.  We are called to follow his example.

Most small groups over the years have been defined by the topics being studied.  As topics changed people would join a variety of groups over time.  People would follow a favorite instructor, or join a group with a few friends, but rarely would people in a group commit to each other to disciple and challenge each other to go deeper in their relationship with Jesus and with each other.

Menomonie Alliance LifeGroups are not defined by the topic being studied.  LifeGroups are defined by the discipleship relationships that are developing and growing in the group.  This is different from traditional small group models.

A LifeGroup leader, along with those in the group, will determine the subject that needs to be addressed in the group depending on the needs of the people in the group.  The leader will get to know the challenges people are facing and the spiritual maturity levels within the group.  Then, with that information, the topic to be studied will be selected.

Those who join the LifeGroup are encouraged to give their group a high priority by attending regularly so that the group can build relationships based in trust, honesty, and a willingness to sacrifice for each other.

We realize it may take some time for someone to find the group that is right for them, and this is normal.  Once someone finds a group that fits their needs, we are hoping it will become a primary discipleship component in their life.  The relationships developing there are meant to be foundational toward spiritual formation for years to come.

LifeGroup members are encouraged to remain in a single group and to become dedicated to the people there as the people in the group become dedicated to them as well.  By investing in our group relationships, we are developing a discipleship network in the group.  Our goal is to build disciples that are heart, soul, mind, and strength committed to Jesus (Mark 12:30) and are helping each other to seek Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

As we do, we become mature in our faith, and we are surrounded by a core group of like-minded people.  We can then reproduce ourselves in the lives of other people and touch our community with the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a team of growing disciples.

Most of us, as Christians in Western Culture, have not been able to fully understand that God is holy and infinitely superior.  Instead of viewing him properly, we sometimes treat God as if he were a generous and indulgent parent who loves his children and has no higher purpose than to give us all we desire.  God is our loving Father; faithful, generous, and merciful, but we must remember he is also our King.  We can never repay the debt that Jesus paid for our salvation, and we are never asked to.  As God’s children, our service to him is motivated by love for him, but not to earn his favor.  We serve in love and gratitude for the gift of salvation he gives us, which inspires a life of obedience, service, sacrifice and surrender.

The consumer model of how we view God is all about what God can do for us.  This is very dangerous.  When we view God through the eyes of a consumer, we are unprepared for the inevitable hardships in life.  When tragedy strikes, or persecution, Christian consumers will likely walk away from God thinking he has failed them.  They were taught that God wanted to bless them, and he would protect them.  They were promised Jesus would keep them in good health and they would be prosperous in life.  When difficulty overwhelmed them, they often threw aside their faith and followed the Lord no more.  Jesus referred to this as the “seed sown on the rocky soil” (Matthew 13:20-21).

The servanthood model, that Jesus called us to, is much different.  It is based in serving God and others.  There is great joy in knowing God as our Father and in serving others, but this joy is based in knowing Jesus personally and walking with him through the joys and sorrows of life.  God’s goal for our lives is not simply to make us comfortable and prosperous. There is a battle to be fought.  There are souls to be rescued.  Our goal is to hear Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).

As Jesus gives us the gift of salvation, with all of its blessings and privileges, he also adds:  “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  (Mark 10:42-45)

Jesus said to them again,
“Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” (John 20:21)

“We love God because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19).  Out of love and gratitude for what Jesus has done for us, we willingly serve him, obey his commands, and are willing to follow in his footsteps of suffering.  But we are never alone.  Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29-30)

Francis Chan put it this way:  He said there was a young man in his church who was frustrated as the church began to shift from consumerism to servanthood, and he said, “I feel like the rules of the game have changed. When I became a Christian, it was like God had gifted me with a new pair of ice skates and I was free to enjoy them on the ice and do as I pleased.  But now I am being told that God wants me to use these skates as a player on a hockey team training to win a championship.”  There is a purpose to the gifts that God gives us.  They are not purely for our enjoyment.

Jesus is preparing a Bride which is the Church.  He modeled for us all that he expects of us.  This involves doing his will and keeping his commands as he did for the Father.  This is not a works-based salvation.  We are saved by grace alone, but then we are to obey him.  Jesus was called to commitment, sacrifice, and even suffering to accomplish the will of the Father.  He calls us to follow in his footsteps.

Jesus’ love for the Father and lost souls caused him to obey even when it was hard.  He modeled a life spent for the glory of God and the benefit of others.  “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”

The goal of the MAC Discipleship Pathway is for groups and members to know, love, and worship Jesus in the context of Biblical spiritual formation. As we continue to multiply disciples, our focus is on an authentic relational community and to remain mindful of our mission to live out the love of Jesus in our world. This is best expressed through three main areas of focus: Corporate Worship on Sunday, Belonging in a LifeGroup, and Discovering your place of Service.

CORPORATE WORSHIP ON SUNDAY
We seek to love God with a heart, soul, mind, and strength commitment and to                   pursue him with all our hearts. As a family of believers with the same goals and dreams, we meet in a weekly corporate gathering to celebrate our church family and to worship our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.

BELONGING IN A LIFEGROUP
We each need intimate relationships with a group of Christian believers who will help us mature into the image of Jesus. In a LifeGroup we develop a deeper relationship with the Lord and with each other as we navigate the joys and challenges of life together. These relationships are based on trust, honesty, and a willingness to sacrifice for each other.

DISCOVERING YOUR PLACE OF SERVICE
All of us have unique gifts and talents. As we discover our God-given gifts, we want to use them to illustrate God’s love for others and our love for our neighbors. This brings a richness to our lives, making them meaningful and abundant. Finding a place of service that has a sense of God’s calling attached brings glory to God, and it will bring us great joy as we give of ourselves for the benefit of others.

In our rapidly changing world, the Lord is in the process of building and refining His people to equip us to face any potential challenges that may lie ahead.  God desires we seek Him with all our heart; and as we do, the worries and cares of the world quickly fade into the background and true peace becomes ours.  God wants us to understand the depth of His love for us and the deep relationship He desires to share with us.

The Bible is living and active and shaper than any two-edged sword.  We come to know God intimately as we hide it in our hearts.  We seek to develop disciples that have a relationship with Jesus that has been nurtured through a love and dedication to God’s Word, the Bible.

There is a cost involved in becoming a disciple of Jesus.  The Bible refers to it as the “pearl of great price” that we give everything to own.  This involves embracing the values of commitment, repentance, obedience, sacrifice, and surrender (cross).

A serious disciple desires to live by the life values of honesty, truth, integrity, and will maintain a pure heart.  We must guard our hearts and keep a conscience that is pure before the Lord so that our prayers are not hindered, and to live a life in the service of others.

Our goal in making disciples is to train and inspire Christian believers to become people with the character and priorities of our King, Jesus Christ.  We desire to partner with  Jesus to build people of Christ-like moral character who walk in the fruit of the Holy Spirit and love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength.

We desire to equip each disciple with the knowledge of their own personal gifts and strengths, and to understand what God expects of us as His beloved children, and His ambassadors in this world.

Developing a deep love for God and for others, even our enemies, must be the goal of each disciple if we seek to be conformed to the image of Jesus.  In doing so, our hearts will become dedicated to the mission Jesus gave us of making disciples who will make disciples of others.  Living for God and for others and working toward eternal goals that produce fruit which can never be lost or fade away brings true joy and abundant life.

Here at Menomonie Alliance Church, we are concentrating on a distinct discipleship pathway for our church family.  This is based in a network of LifeGroups that meet in homes for the purpose of building relationships based in love, trust, and a willingness to sacrifice for each other.

The goal is to become like Jesus by loving him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30), and to seek him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13).  We need each other to do this well because brothers and sisters sharpen each other as iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17).

As we pursue God in this way, we have no doubt he will meet us, and our lives will overflow with an abundance of joy and confidence.  We then desire to carry the life-changing message of the Gospel to others who have no hope in these troubled times.

The invitation to be a disciple of Jesus is based in understanding that…

• We are called by Christ.
• Into a loving relationship with Christ.
• For the purpose of becoming like Christ.
• While we are on mission with Christ.

We have been called by Christ:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:28-30

Into a loving relationship with Christ:  
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”  Revelation 3:20

For the purpose of becoming like Christ:
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”  Galatians 2:20
“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”  Romans 8:29
“And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”  Ephesians 5:2

While we are on mission with Christ:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”  Matthew 28:19-20

What kind of a time commitment am I making by joining a LifeGroup? 
LifeGroups are designed to build deep discipleship relationships. This does require a long-term time commitment; but in many cases, people may wish to explore a variety of groups before they commit to the one that is right for them. We ask those who sign up for a LifeGroup to make a short-term commitment to attend the group for the full 12 or 16 weeks the group will meet that semester or season.  This provides the opportunity to get to know each person in the group well, but it also opens an off-ramp for those who would like to consider another group before making a long-term commitment.

Who should I talk to about childcare?
Each LifeGroup will decide the best method of providing childcare for group members.  Please be sure to note if you want to include your children in the LifeGroup you desire to attend, and discuss childcare options with the individual group leaders.

Why are some LifeGroups Full?
Some of our LifeGroups began with the curriculum we used in 2020 called “Rooted.”  Other groups have used various curriculum and discussion formats since that time, and are considered “full” simply because they have no room for additional people. Church leadership encourages all LifeGroups to multiply at some point when they become full.  The best way to do this is to allow each group the freedom to do this organically. This means the group will determine the best timetable for change and where various members of the group will go.  As the group prays together about this and gains a sense of God’s leading, they will then approach the church leadership. Church leadership will then assist, train, and equip the group to fulfill their vision to multiply and broaden their ministry. LifeGroups that are “full” would then become open for others to attend.

“One died for all, therefore, all died; and He died for all that they who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.”  2 Corinthians 5:14-15

Here is a wonderous thing.  Jesus requires us to die.  This is not literal, although at times it could be, but this is the kind of dying that enables us to become like Jesus.  He emptied himself and became a servant who humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:7-8)

“Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, that our body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be the slaves of sin.” (Romans 6:6)

Jesus gave us some very simple commands to obey.  While they are simple, they are not easy.  The reason they are not easy is because the flesh hates to die, and to keep these commands we must become willing to die.  We must choose to put to death those parts of us that want to continue to live and justify doing wrong.

For example:  Jesus said that we must forgive our brother an unlimited number of times.  (Matthew 18:21-22)  We are commanded to love our enemies. (Matthew 5:43-44)  We must also die to things we love and enjoy (even when they are not sinful), so as not to cause a brother or sister in Jesus to stumble.  (1 Corinthians 8:1-13)

There is no possible way we can keep these commandments unless we die.  We must die to self.  I make the choice to die, and God resurrects me into the image of Jesus by making me something new.  I make the choice to love and forgive, but in myself I have no power to do so.

I repent of resentment, anger, rage, bitterness and all of these things.  Then I pray for the power to love and forgive, which is impossible for me to do on my own.  I put to death my natural inclinations to hate and resent by refusing to give place to them anymore.  Then, in a very real sense, I put to death the part of me who hates his brother and cannot forgive him.  I choose to obey the Lord and make up my mind to love and forgive someone.  

Then God takes over.  In answer to my prayer, God changes my heart.  Miraculously, my inability to love is replaced by God’s compassion and a genuine ability to love my enemy.  This may be a process that takes some time, or it may happen suddenly.  I am reborn through my decision to obey Him and die to my self-will.  God gives me the ability to genuinely love someone I could not love before.  But we gotta die first.

“I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.  And the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

Dear Friends and Church Family,

We are preparing for our Fall LifeGroup season and would like to give you some important information to help answer your questions.

The Bible is our primary curriculum and the centerpiece of everything we do.  It is our hope that our LifeGroup leaders will teach directly from the Bible as often as possible.  There are also other quality resources available to help in the disciple-making process.

Sign-ups for LifeGroups will begin on Sunday, August 21, 2022.  Our LifeGroup season will begin on the week of September 11.  Groups will be free to meet on different days and times to study a variety of subjects depending on the preferences of the LifeGroup leader and the host home.  There are traditionally three LifeGroup seasons each year which are Fall, Spring and Summer.

The goal of LifeGroups is to make disciples and to develop deep relationships with the Lord and other people.  Because of this, we request that you consider participating for the entire 12-16 weeks that the group will be meeting each season so that you have adequate time to allow relationships to develop.  If you are in a group and desire to find a new group, or if another group has a topic of interest to you, the start date and end date provides the offramp for you to make the switch.

LifeGroups seek to develop lasting discipleship relationships.  However, we understand this is not the best choice for everyone.  You may wish to visit a variety of LifeGroups over the three seasons each year.  We do not discourage this, but it is best to join a group of people who are committed to each other and will help each other grow based in honesty and trust.

If you have children and are considering joining a LifeGroup, there are a variety of childcare options available.  Choosing the best option for each group is the decision of the LifeGroup leader and the host home.  LifeGroup coaches will also assist in this process.

We look forward to serving you this Fall.

Thank you and God bless you.

A LifeGroup is a small group of people that usually meets in a home for the purpose of doing life together.  LifeGroups have a clear purpose of making disciples that can reproduce themselves in others.  We do this by seeking Jesus with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13), and building relationships based in honesty, trust, and a willingness to sacrifice for each other.

LifeGroups are the basic building blocks for developing an authentic community of believers with the goal of missional living.  The LifeGroup concept is not new, but the goals today are different.  I believe there is a greater sense that God is calling us closer to Himself.  This requires a level of intimacy with God and sacrifice, sometimes even suffering, if we are to become like Jesus.

The traditional view of discipleship in Western Culture is based on listening carefully to our instructor, diligently taking notes, and then applying what we have learned to our lives.  The problem with this is that people think they cannot disciple others unless they are good at classroom-style teaching, and in this model the instructor does all the thinking.  But teaching as Jesus did is often simply being a model of the things being taught, having discussions about practical things, and taking time with people.  

Rather than the traditional lecture or classroom model, LifeGroups use the discussion or case-study model more.  The instructor or leader introduces discussion questions or a case study requiring a solution.  This will produce interactive learning.  The leader guides the discussion toward the desired goals, but this interactive method produces learning relationships.  We want to educate in such a way that all members of the group participate in the conversation.

Members of the group discover the answers using their own critical thought process and analysis as the leader guides the conversation.  In the traditional lecture format, the answers are given by the instructor.  In the LifeGroup model, the answer is not given, but discovered.  When people in the group discover answers for themselves, they own them, and they will remember them.

Someone has said, “We want to build a relational bridge that will support the weight of truth.”  This involves an emotional-relational connection with people.  Some relational bridges are very fragile.  When truth is shared people get offended and the relational bridge collapses.  When the bridge is strong, we can bring any kind of truth to the table and the relational bridge does not collapse.  This is because trust has been established.  LifeGroups are best suited to this goal, and meeting in homes is a fruitful environment to build this kind of discipleship relationship.    

Biblical discipleship is built on a passionate desire to follow Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and by building relationships with others based in defending, protecting, and sacrificing for each other.  Honesty and vulnerability produce trust.  We grow into the image of Jesus by being entirely genuine, then we love and help each other as needed.  We make disciples organically by doing life together, sharing our hearts, and serving each other.  LifeGroup leaders are encouraged to use the Bible as their primary curriculum as much as possible.

The LifeGroup purpose is to find deep and genuine discipleship relationships with God and with each other on both an intellectual and an emotional level.  When we get this right, the fruit is love, trust, and a deep commitment to God and to each other, as well as a desire to share this with others.  Along with a disciplined prayer life, God’s Word is the centerpiece of all we do.  Jesus calls us into a loving relationship with him for the purpose of becoming like him, as we partner with him to bring the Gospel to others.

We would like to introduce our Disciple-Making Committee here at Menomonie Alliance Church.  This team of leaders is tasked with the responsibility to train, equip, and support our LifeGroup Leaders.  A LifeGroup is a small group of 8-12 people that usually meets in a home for the purpose of doing life together.  The LifeGroup has a clear purpose of making disciples that can reproduce themselves in others.  We do this by seeking Jesus with all our heart, and building relationships based in honesty, trust, and a willingness to sacrifice for each other.

The members of our Disciple-Making Committee are:  Jon Chara, Korlee Witzel, Carol Paur, Homer Madison, Andy Krause, Gary Cowles, Jason Miller, and Ralph Becker.

Jon Chara is a church elder and Bible study teacher. Jon has been attending MAC since 2010.  
“Over the years I have seen the powerful effect of discipleship in my life and in the lives of others. I have also seen the devastation caused when Christians and churches neglect the principal command of King Jesus: to become disciples who obey all He commanded.” – Jon Chara

Homer Madison is an elder at Menomonie Alliance Church, and a member at MAC for over twenty years.  “My wife, Diana, and I have led several small groups over the years, prayed consistently for the church, local and worldwide, served in a variety of ways including mission trips, and have also been involved in mentoring.  Loving Jesus and coming alongside others on life's journey (or doing life together) is who God has made us to be. We call it “A long obedience in the same direction.”” – Homer Madison

Korlee Witzel has been attending Menomonie Alliance Church for over ten years. She has taught Discovery Land and has led worship for Discovery time.  “Discipleship makes someone a leader for God through His Word and by His power. It is the pathway to becoming a mature believer and being equipped to lead others in the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13) – Korlee Witzel

Carol Paur, and her husband, Bryan, have attended Menomonie Alliance for 38 years.  
“We have led many small groups in our home over the years. Personally, I have always had a heart for young moms which has led to my ongoing involvement in Mom’s Group.” – Carol Paur

Andy Krause is a LifeGroup leader here at MAC and a discipleship strategist with keen insights into the keys to relationship development.  Andy has a natural evangelistic gifting and is skilled at implementing the systems and structures necessary to organizational success.

Jason Miller is an elder here at Menomonie Alliance Church and is a passionate teacher of the Bible.  He is the leader of our Men’s Ministry here at MAC.

Gary Cowles and his wife, Debbie, moved to Menomonie in 1975 and joined the church that year. “I have served as an elder in the past, and was the second treasurer, serving for several years in that capacity. Over the years I have taught many adult Sunday School classes, with a preference for Old Testament topics. Debbie and I have two married sons, neither living nearby, and three grandchildren.” – Gary Cowles

Ralph Becker is Associate Pastor of Discipleship and Small Groups here at Menomonie Alliance.  Ralph pastored for several years in Colorado and Utah and has been a Bible teacher for most of his life.  He also taught at UW-Stout for a season.  “Discipleship is much different than our traditional view of discipleship in Western Culture.  In North America discipleship is based on listening carefully to our instructor, diligently taking notes, and then applying what we have learned.  But true discipleship is built on a passionate desire to follow Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and by building relationships with others on a foundation of honesty, humility, vulnerability, and trust.  The Bible becomes the foundation of life as Jesus calls us into a loving relationship with him, for the purpose of becoming like him, while we partner with him to bring the Gospel to the nations.” - Ralph Becker

The Bible tells us we are all sinners and are therefore separated from God.  Thankfully, Jesus died to remedy this problem.  Our responsibility, as those in relationship with Jesus, is to carry this message to others.

But there is a problem.  As Christians, we often get sidetracked into thinking that it is our job to change the behavior of lost souls instead of leading them to Jesus who has the ability to change their hearts.  We get upset about the sinful things that sinful people do, forgetting that we once walked that path ourselves.

A sinner does sinful stuff.  That’s just nature.  We know we are not better than sinners, because we are all originally cut from the same cloth.  What changed in us as Christians is that God changed our hearts.  That is what changed our behavior.

If my goal is to change the behavior of sinners without trying to change their hearts, it will harden their hearts toward me and toward God.  My work will bring the opposite kind of fruit that I am seeking to produce for the Kingdom of God.  It’s not about winning the battle but winning the heart.

Whether it is a case of unlawful politics, dishonest business practices, or lying, cheating, and manipulating others, I am called to love the sinner not change their behavior.  Changing people is God’s job.  (Matthew 5:39-45)

Genuine love is the greatest of all powers when bringing change to the hearts of the lost.  This is how God reached most of us.  We must change our hearts and then work to change the hearts of sinners.  This is very easy to talk about, but hard to do.

The reason it is hard to do is that it requires us to die.  We must die to ourselves and put our will into God’s hands.  We must love an enemy with our hearts and our actions, and even be willing to pray for God to give them light, mercy, and blessing.  This is what changes the heart of a lost soul.  (Galatians 2:20)

I am to go after the heart, not the behavior.  It requires me to change my heart first, which translated means I allow God to change my heart.  This involves pursuing the fruit of the Spirit in me such as love, peace, gentleness, kindness, and patience.  God will gladly give me these things as I seek him.  And, yes, I must be willing to forgive.

As Christians, we must confine our passion for justice and righteous to saving the life of a lost soul instead of expecting sinners to do things that are contrary to their sinful nature. When we concentrate only on changing sinful behaviors, we get our eye off the ball and end up fighting the wrong battles.

A change in behavior is not the endgame, it is the salvation of a lost soul.  With the love of Jesus lived out in me, I am doing my part as God’s Spirit wins hearts, saves souls, and brings genuine behavioral change into the lives of sinners.

One Sunday a great Christian opera singer was invited to do a special song for a large church in a big city, and he accepted. When the day arrived, the professional singer sang a well-known Christian song. His voice was perfect and echoed through the sanctuary. It was one of the greatest presentations ever. Afterward, the congregation gave him a standing ovation as he bowed to show his gratitude for their applause.

Backstage there was another singer who was scheduled to do a special song at the end of the service. She was a young lady from the church with a developing talent, but there was a problem. She and the opera singer had chosen the same song. She did not have anywhere near his level of skill, and she was terrified because it was too late for her to select another song.
She had prayed for the Lord to use her to touch the hearts of his people for much of the week. She even fasted several meals as she prayed for God to help her. She was new to singing on a stage, and very nervous. She told the pastor of her dilemma and he encouraged her to sing what she had prepared. As the service ended, she stood to sing her song. Frightened and embarrassed that she could not compare to the professional voice of the previous singer, she humbly trusted God and sang with all her heart.

Then something unexpected began to happen. As the young lady sang, the people reacted differently. It was the same song, but this time people began to stand with their hands raised toward heaven as she sang. The people began to sing with her. They all started to stand, eyes closed and deeply moved, and some were crying. God was moving in the hearts of the people as she had asked him to do. The people continued worshipping for several more minutes, even after she sat down.

As a Christian, when we pray in humility and ask God to help us to be a blessing to his people, something begins to happen. God wants us to trust more in Jesus than we do in our own abilities. He can do what we cannot. In response to prayer, the Holy Spirit will draw people to the meeting, he will convict those present, and he will anoint those who sing or speak on his behalf. Our words will then penetrate the hearts of others. This brings the fruit of changed hearts and lives, and God receives all the glory.

I care about lost souls, I genuinely do. But there is a problem. My caring does not motivate me to do. I may do something for lost souls in my community sometimes because I know it is right, but I will be uncomfortable and hope the task ends quickly.  This tells me that caring is not enough.

When I possess God’s love and compassion for the lost, it takes me to an entirely new level, but how do I get there? Do I ask, seek, and knock in prayer that God will give me his love for lost souls, or do I discipline myself to pray for the lost and then God answers my prayer by giving me his heart and his love for lost souls?  Perhaps both.

When I have the love of God in my heart, then motivation is no longer an issue; but I must realize this is not something I can generate on my own. It is a gift of God that becomes mine as I seek him for what I need to accomplish what I must do. Those who have God’s love in their hearts cannot help but think about lost souls. They cannot sleep at night sometimes. They weep for the lost and get emotional. They plead with God constantly to do what they cannot. This is an act of my will to do the work, but also a prayer to equip me.

I become the hands of Jesus as I pray for lost souls around me and ask God to make me into the image of Jesus. I am asking God’s Spirit to change me. As I do, his heart, his character, and his priorities become mine. This is not a decision I make to do better; it is a prayer I pray because it is beyond my ability to do better.

As he answers this prayer, my will and his will merge. His heart, his love, and his compassion become mine, and then I just do what comes naturally. That always involves the lost. And when we see the harvest it brings, we have life more abundantly.  But before we do, we must become.

"Abide in me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
John 15:4-5

As we see each day the changes taking place all around us, our sense of security and even our peace of mind can be disrupted. We live in a time when information and communication is highly advanced, but the relational component often seems to be missing. A virtual meeting, or a text from a friend; a post on social media or an email can keep us in touch and informed, but we may still feel isolated and alone.

Being with people is required for discipleship to take place. This is where home groups are important. Home groups can bridge the gap between being involved in a church and becoming part of a church family. It is the relational component that modern technology cannot provide.

Meeting at church is good and always will be, but even our best service can leave visitors feeling alone in a crowd. But home groups consistently provide a warm environment where trust can be formed, because we are inviting people into our lives.  This is fertile soil where the seeds of relationship with others can grow and commitment to Jesus can deepen.

As we meet in homes in our community, we bring a sense of connected relationship to each other that technology cannot provide. Our direction for home groups will be to build disciples that are in a loving relationship with Jesus, who are being transformed into his character and embracing his priorities, for the purpose of loving others well.

“Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

God bless you and have a wonderful day,
Ralph Becker, PDSG

We are planning to launch two new home groups in April called “Emmaus Eyes.”  These groups will be led by Jon Chara. The “Emmaus Eyes” title reflects the time when Jesus talked with the two men on the road to Emmaus after he arose from the dead (Luke 24:13-35), and their hearts burned within them with excitement and inspiration.

The goal of “Emmaus Eyes” is to help us see that the Bible reveals spiritual principles that apply to our lives today. By understanding both the Old and New Testaments we get the complete view of the Bible story.  “Emmaus Eyes” is designed to make disciples that will be able to make disciples. A disciple is one who is in a loving relationship with Jesus, being transformed into the character and priorities of Jesus for the sake of loving others well.  

“Emmaus Eyes” will meet twice monthly as a home group, on alternating weeks. Group one will meet on the first and third weeks, and group two will meet on the second and fourth weeks. There will be homework assignments and reading to be completed on the alternating weeks when you do not meet.  

Rather than signing up for an open group until it is full, as we usually do, the “Emmaus Eyes” groups will be smaller, and they will be closed groups with a limited number of participants. There will be eight people per group. The reason for this is that “Emmaus Eyes” is a relational and interactive disciple-making course designed for those with an earnest desire to go deeper in relationship with the Lord. In addition, this course will also help prepare you to lead or co-lead a home group of your own upon completion.  

All are welcome to sign-up and apply. Each person in the group will complete a brief application and then the instructor will choose those who are most suited to the direction the course will be taking. “Emmaus Eyes” involves four three-month quarters over a one-year period. Please speak with Jon Chara, the instructor, about any limitations or adjustments you may need to participate.

Pick up a sign up sheet at the Welcome Center or sign up on the Events page on the church website or app.

God bless you and have a great week,
Ralph Becker,
Pastor, Discipleship and Small Groups, Menomonie Alliance Church

Group Types and Purposes

Most Menomonie Alliance small groups have been and will continue to be open groups.  People sign up until the group fills up and attend. These groups are open to all, and new visitors and unbelievers are welcome and encouraged to attend.

When a group has a specific purpose, this may become a closed group. Closed groups are dealing with things like leadership training, addiction, marriage issues and other things that involve a high degree of trust, honesty, and vulnerability.

Closed groups are not permanent, but new visitors do not attend because this could cause those in the group to stop talking freely because they do not yet trust the new visitor. Trust takes time to build, so closed groups protect that trust.

There are other times when a teacher would like to invest in people for a specific purpose. This may require those interested in the group to apply rather than sign up to join. The instructor will then evaluate each person and choose those that best fit the specific purpose of the group.